Issues at stake: • The European Investigation Order (EIO) is a judicial cooperation instrument used in criminal matters within the European Union, except for Denmark and Ireland. The EIO provides a comprehensive framework for simplifying and accelerating cross-border criminal investigations. • Available data indicate a steady rise in use of the EIO since it was introduced. • Directive 2014/41/EU on the European Investigation Order in criminal matters ('the EIO Directive') provides the legal framework. It has applied since 22 May 2017 and has generally been found to work well. • Nevertheless, recent reports have highlighted the need to address additional aspects of cross-border investigations. • The European Commission therefore proposes to make targeted legislative improvements to the EIO Directive. • The revision will focus on improving the cross-border gathering of evidence in criminal matters and facilitating remote videoconference participation of suspects, accused persons and victims of crime in court hearings. Source : © European Union, 2026 - EP Read more